Manages the development and implementation of strategic agronomic improvement initiatives within the Agriculture Department. Examples include analyzing shareholder practice information to identify best agronomic practices to maximize returns to the shareholders and the Company, implementing change initiatives throughout the Ag department, reviewing the effectiveness of all Ag department functions to identify improvement opportunities.

Manages the development and implementation of strategic agronomic improvement initiatives focusing on shareholder profitability. In order to achieve the goals of multiple strategic initiatives simultaneously, the incumbent needs to engage, coordinate and leverage work from Ag Teams and individual Ag department staff members on those initiatives.

Improves Ag department functions such as the annual contracting process, disease management, field measuring, adding acres in the spring, reducing them in the fall and minimizing total beet freight costs.

Analyzes and oversees the management of the Grower Practices System Database (GPS) and collection process identifying trends and associations between practices and economic results.

Develops theories for change in practices based on analyses. Works to establish and maintain solid working relationships with shareholders and Ag staff in exploring possibilities and the practicality of theories. May test theories with individual shareholders to further quantify expected results in actual field conditions. Input from Ag staff is important in the development and execution of initiatives.

Develops shareholder communications of improvement initiatives in a clear and concise manner through written materials, and speaking to groups of shareholders and other interested parties. This position must be able to explain theories and demonstrate the economic benefits of such changes to motivate shareholders to change their practices to realize a greater economic return. The incumbent also manages communications with allied industry representatives to promote the sharing of pertinent information and ensure the consistency of recommendations to sugarbeet growers.

The Ag Strategy Development Manager operates within guidelines established within Agriculture by the Vice President of Agriculture and by Company policy. The incumbent has responsibility for developing recommendations for change to grower practices and communication methods to promote such changes.